Fish dying in Lalbagh tank; population boom blamed

Fish dying in Lalbagh tank; population boom blamed
Deccan Herald

Dead fish floating in the water of Lalbagh tank has been a common sight for the last 10 days. Removing the dead fish too has become routine for the garden staff.

Dead fish floating in the water of Lalbagh tank has been a common sight for the last 10 days. Removing the dead fish too has become routine for the garden staff.

According to the staff members, they remove on an average 10-20 dead fish every day.

The Horticulture Department authorities blame over population of fish for the deaths.


Dr Vasanth Kumar, Director of Horticulture said, “Death of 10 or 20 fish in the 36-acre tank is not a big number. According to our observation, death of fish is due to over population. As 90 per cent of the water in the tank is fresh water, algae has grown in abundance resulting in more production of fish. However, we have consulted experts from Fisheries department. Experts also visited the tank on Tuesday morning and their report is expected in a day or two.”

Mr Jagadeesh, Deputy Director of Horticulture (Lalbagh), said, “Two breeds of fish - Jilabe and Thelapia are found in the tank. They seemed to be very sensitive. Moreover, the department has not been authorised to fish in the tank.

If fishing is allowed, the problem could be solved permanently.”

Dr Vasanth Kumar added, the department will consult authorities in Fisheries Department and soon take a decision on fishing in the tank.